Picturesque Heidelberg, the country’s oldest university town, nestles amid a dense forest by the riverside. The city’s rich literary history has earned it the UNESCO City of Literature title. The ruins of Heidelberg Castle, an inspiration to artists such as Goethe and William Turner, sits perched on a hilltop, its silhouette towering over the city. Having escaped World War II unscathed, this thriving city with its churches, castles and other historic landmarks, invites you to explore its many attractions. Being a university town with a sizable student population, there is no dearth of happening night clubs and jazz venues. Visit around Christmas for a glimpse of the famous market that extends across the oldest part of the city. Savor the aroma of hot chestnuts, cinnamon, and roasted almonds wafting through the air, and enjoy watching children and adults gliding over Germany’s most beautiful ice rink.